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Glenveagh National Park and Castle
Churchill, Co. Donegal
Family friendly
Free to visit
Dog friendly
Free car parking
Cloudy days
Explore the beautiful grounds and romantic castellated mansion at Glenveagh National Park and Castle in County Donegal. It is the most northerly of Ireland's six national parks and a must visit on a trip to Donegal.

With its magnificent mountains, pristine lakes, waterfalls, glens, native oak woods, and a picturesque castle with all its original furnishings, Glenveagh National Park and Castle is one of the most magical places to visit in Donegal.

The castle, 24km north west of Letterkenny, was styled as a romantic highland retreat and completed in 1873. It hosted many famous guests over the years, including Marilyn Monroe and John Wayne. Explore the Castle Gardens, known as some of the best in Ireland. Enjoy the Gothic Orangery, the Italian Terrace and the Tuscan Garden and walk the Pleasure Gardens. Afterwards, relax over lunch or coffee and homemade cakes in the pretty tearooms or in the courtyard.

Watch out for red deer or see if you can spot the rare Golden Eagles which were reintroduced to Glenveagh. Wild camping is allowed in some remote areas of Glenveagh as long as you follow the Wild Camping Code.

Why we like it
  • Explore Glenveagh's stunning park and gardens for free.
  • Spend time at the fascinating interpretative centre and watch the audiovisual presentation.
  • Join the 45 minute paid guided tour of the castle. 
  • Take a break at the pretty tearooms.
  • Watch out for special events on bank holidays.
Tips from locals

Walk from the visitor centre to the castle (3.5km) instead of using the shuttle bus and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Derryveagh Mountains and Lough Veagh.

Tips from locals

If you intend to visit the castle go straight there to book your tour. You may have to wait for the next available one, but you can use the time to explore the grounds and gardens of the castle.

Tips from locals

There are lots of walking trails for all levels in Glenveagh. Leave your car in the carpark and take the Trail Walker Bus to some of the best starting points.

Contact details
Letterkenny, Co. Donegal, Ireland
Visit duration

We recommend planning to spend 3 to 5 hours here.

More to discover at Glenveagh National Park and Castle
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